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Optimizing Fruit Quality in Fresh Market Tomato (E2927)

Attention to improving the quality and appearance of fruit is the foundation for success in fresh market tomatoes because skin color, firmness and an attractive appearance are crucial for market acceptance.

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Attention to improving the quality and appearance of fruit is the foundation for success in fresh market tomatoes because skin color, firmness and an attractive appearance are crucial for market acceptance. Tomato fruit quality and appearance are determined by a wide range of factors. Among these, key factors are the variety, cultural management practices and seasonal weather. Information is presented here on variety choice and production practices that can help improve the quality and appearance of fresh market tomato fruit.

This bulletin focuses on how to reduce fruit cracking and shoulder check defect, and how to improve fruit color. Information on management of other tomato fruit disorders such as blossom-end rot and catface are available from other sources, including those listed here. An excellent overview of tomato fruit physiological defects such as catface is presented in MSUE Extension bulletin E-1679 (Stephens et al., 1983) and from the Texas Cooperative Extension Web site: http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/tomato problemsolver/index.html. Recent information on control of blossom-end rot is presented by Arden Sherf and Thomas Woods of Cornell University at http://vegetablemdonline.ppath.cornell.edu/ factsheets/tomato_blossrt.htm.

November 21, 2017 | Erin Lizotte | As the end of the year approaches, growers can take advantage of the new online Integrated Pest Management Academy and earn six credits towards their Michigan Pesticide Applicators License.

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